The men and women of Judah cried out against their fellow Jews because many were struggling to feed their families, mortgaging their property, and borrowing money to pay royal taxes. The wealthy were taking advantage of the poor, forcing some into slavery. In response, Nehemiah confronted the nobles and the officials, “As far as possible, we have bought back our fellow Jews who were sold to the Gentiles. Now you are selling your own people, only for them to be sold back to us!” The people were speechless. Nehemiah urged them to stop charging interest, to forgive the debts, and to restore the people’s property. God cares deeply about how we treat one another. May the Holy Spirit convict us whenever our actions place unnecessary burdens on our brothers and sisters in Christ, and may we walk in God’s grace through generosity, compassion, and justice.